I read the headlines. I prayed with our church. But mostly, I felt numb.

Another attack. This time in Orlando. Prayers and grief amidst politicized comments on guns, religion, and sexuality. Again, really!?!

A few days have gone by. Commentary continues. Displays of social stupidity abound, but glimmers of hope emerge in stories of unity and service. My numbness is shifting; I do care. Yet I realize caring is risky. I might have to say something. I might have to do something. Yup, I do.

To those of us who are praying: keep praying. For comfort and peace, yes. But also for healing and reconciliation. Pray for actions of peace beyond a sentiment of peace. But then be ready when your prayers are answered. Really. One thing I’ve realized as a Christian is that prayer is never a passive exercise. Scripture, history, and personal stories reveal that prayer is often answered not in the miraculous, but in the simple miracle of us being the answer to our prayers for others. This is not conceding God’s irrelevance or suggesting humanity has all the answers (we clearly don’t). In the way of Jesus, we are sent into the world to love like Jesus. We aren’t bystanders to the kingdom of God we pray for – we are citizens! In praying for comfort, then, we are led to offer comfort. In praying for peace, we live out peace. In praying for healing, we go to people in their sorrow and suffering.

To those of us grieving with the victims: embrace the power of solidarity that comes with mourning alongside others. As I read this week, "Compassion is the sometimes fatal capacity for feeling what it is like to live inside somebody else's skin. It's the knowledge that there can never really be any peace and joy for me until there is peace and joy finally for you too" (Frederick Buechner). But remember that lasting solidarity goes beyond a one-time extension of care and concern. Whether it’s with the LGBTQ community or the Muslim community, initial grief is good, but solidarity goes beyond the trauma of this week and commits to walking alongside those on the difficult journey towards peace and joy. And even if our grieving begins as strangers, in authentic grieving with people, we receive the gift of friendship.

Prayers and grief are important responses to tragedy and injustice. But as I write from a place of privilege in North America (Caucasian, straight, educated, Christian), I realize my words alone sound hallow against countless examples of evasive silence at best and gross injustice at worst. I’ve said something. Now it’s time to do something. Will you join me?
What can we do?

Connect with LGBTQ friends and family members regularly

Advocate for minorities in your community through promoting positive attitudes (e.g. speaking against racist comments/attitudes) and supporting programs for integrating minorities.

Volunteer with local organizations focused on diversity and community development

Build a mutual friendship with a minority individual. In particular, as a person of privilege, embrace weakness and receive the gift of friendship (don’t create the friendship on your terms)